Liverpool target Dortmund’s defender as Van Dijk’s successor

Liverpool have expressed significant interest in securing the services of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, who is seen as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.

The 25-year-old, who has earned praise for his leadership qualities, is reportedly among the players who could leave Borussia Dortmund this summer, particularly if the club fails to secure European football.

Despite a disappointing season for Dortmund, currently sitting in 10th place in the Bundesliga, Schlotterbeck has been a standout figure in their defence.

According to German outlet Bild, Liverpool are prepared to offer around £42 million for the Germain international, whose contract with Dortmund runs until 2027.

If the deal goes through, it would make him Liverpool’s second-most expensive defender, trailing only the £75 million they paid for Virgil van Dijk in 2018. With Van Dijk’s contract set to expire in the summer, the Reds are eyeing future options in central defence, and Schlotterbeck fits that bill.

Liverpool’s track record of successful Bundesliga signings, including Roberto Firmino, Joel Matip, Konate, Can and Dominik Szoboszlai, adds weight to the notion that Schlotterbeck could be the next promising recruit from Germany.